Coach Anderson Said What?
So…did you catch this segment in Ken Sugiura’s write up of Wednesday night’s 5-4 preseason win over the Nashville Predators?
Another addition under examination for the Thrashers was speedy forward Maxim Afinogenov, brought in last Friday for a pro tryout. His opportunities were limited — his ice time was third-lowest on the team — and he was playing with new linemates (rookie Evander Kane and Tim Stapleton), but he showed Anderson enough.
“I thought he played really well,” Anderson said. “He’ll play more in regular-season games. It’s just the way it went tonight with so many penalties in the game [against the Thrashers]. He’s not a penalty-killer.”
Ah…what’s that again coach? ”He’ll play more in regular-season games”.
Well, if Anderson is going to be giving Max more playing minutes come October 3rd, then that means he’s going to be signed…logically speaking of course?
Now…granted, some may point out the fine print to me here that the good coach did not use the phrase “with the Thrashers” in that statement. I mean, if one chooses to parse words here, one could say that regardless of where he plays he’ll be logging more time on the ice, right?
But that caveat aside…could it be that Anderson just gave us a bit of foreshadowing into the Thrashers near-future plans for Maxim Afinogenov?
Stay tuned.
Boris…Boris…Boris
Boris Valabik did not have himself a very good game Wednesday night. The official line on him was zero points, two shots on goal, 4 PIM and a –2 during his 17:03 time on the ice. But those numbers don’t do it justice.
Which defender is most likely to NOT make the Thrashers opening night lineup?
- Boris Valabik (39%, 34 Votes)
- Anssi Salmela (22%, 19 Votes)
- Mark Popovic (15%, 13 Votes)
- Nathan Oystrick (24%, 22 Votes)
Total Voters: 88
Loading ...When Nashville scored their first goal of the game to cut Atlanta’s 2-0 lead in half, it game 10 seconds after Boris had been sent to the sin-bin for a tripping minor. For the most part he looked out of position and flat.
To illustrate his night in just one play…during the third period, the Thrashers had just killed off a power play and Atlanta’s skaters were looking to switch out. But no sooner than those in attendance heard “Thrashers…FULL STRENGTH” bellow forth from the P.A. system, Valabik had flipped the puck down the length of the ice for an icing call.
Come on back, boys.
Given that…and the strong showings by Mark Popovic…if things continue like this, Boris may find himself viewing the action from the press box next Saturday night.
So…How Did Opie Do?
I’ll answer that question by saying that he did just fine. The line shows he stopped 33 of Nashville’s 37 shots…but really those numbers kind of got skewed a bit late in the game. Nashville netted a pair of goals with under three minutes left after the Thrashers’ skaters looked to already be in the locker room mentally. He saved the first 16 he faced and first 29 of the Preds’ 31 SOG. In the two games he has started he’s saved 66 of the 71 attempts taken on his goal, (.930 SV%).
For the most part, Opie looked sharp and in control.
If he came into the game with the upper hand in the competition for the opening night job, he didn’t do anything to slip in the rankings.
Kubina Not Gonna Stand For That Kinda Krap
One of the better moments in last night’s game came after a low hit on Ilya Kovalchuk. I didn’t get the number of the player who committed the offense, but that’s because Pavel Kubina was on him like Rosie O’Donnell on a lunch buffet…he smothered him, covered him and put him down! I think that’s the kinda toughness Kovy was saying the team needed last spring!
“A”s For Toby And Pavel
Tobias Enstrom and Pavel Kubina both wore an “A” on their jerseys last night. I don’t know if that’s because Armstrong and Kozlov were not in the lineup or if that is indicative of something more.
Thrashers First Decade Per Kincade
I was having lunch with John Kincade Monday…discussing such things as the upcoming Thrashers season, the re-signing of Kovy issue, and the team in general. He classifies his feelings on the 2009-10 campaign as “cautiously optimistic”…where I would say I’m more “anxiously optimistic”. But we’ll discuss that in more detail later.
But for now, here is Kincade’s “Ten Defining Moments” of the Thrashers’ first ten years.
Because You Asked…
The other day someone posted a question to me about the availability of seats on the Party Bus going to the Sharks game on October 24…i.e. the TJ’s/Thrasherville Express.
Well, the answer is that the response has been very good and we expect that the few seats available will be filled soon. But the good news is that there are still some tickets available for those still wanting to climb aboard.
Here’s the info…it’s sure to be a good time!
I’m just curious to see who wins the Zamboni ride that night.
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104 comments Add your comment
R. Stroz
September 24th, 2009
1:06 am
FIRST, or GOLD
Alan
September 24th, 2009
1:18 am
BRONZE, or SECOND
August
September 24th, 2009
1:30 am
Rawhide, you left out Boris’ horrible turnover at the blue line which led to the 2-on-1 that got Nashville back within a goal in the third at 3-2.
Rawhide
September 24th, 2009
1:35 am
August – You’re right…thanks for reminding me and informing everyone else about that. Simply a bad, bad night for Boris.
mutton
September 24th, 2009
2:50 am
I thought it was turning out to be a pretty good night for Boris. I mean he had played with that edge and made it clear that you werent gonna run Opie, but he took a penalty on the play. To me, thats a good penalty, or at least as good as a penalty can be without taking someone to the box with you. But then…. then came the tripping call and resulting PPGA. I figure, *expletive*! but no big deal really, just one slip up and he’ll come back more composed and he wont do it again. Seems like no sooner do I hear his name again, I hear the words “Nashville” and “scores” in the same sentence. Come to find out it was Boris who turned the puck over by turning himself inside out.
The impression I got (DISCLAIMER: I WAS NOT AT THIS GAME. I LISTENED TO THE RADIO FEED. But Dan Kamal is about as good as it gets short of being there. And yes, I do mean including watching on television.) was that Boris was having a good night, straddling that line pretty well, then he crossed it in a necessary situation (when Opie got run) and then he got overconfident and goofed up. After that one, which led to a goal, he didnt seem with it, and after the 2-1 goal against, I dont think I heard his name again the rest of the game.
So yeah, it was a bad night for Boris. But thats what preseason is for right? Now if he takes after Hook N Slash Holik and costs the team a PPGA per game give or take, Ill be right there in the crowd calling for him to get tough practices and less minutes. But Im thinking Dan Kamal was pretty much spot on when he said that Kubina could help mentor Boris on being a big dman in the NHL. After all, who was there to be a big dman mentor to him before Kubina? Hainsey? Maybe. But Hainsey doesnt really have as much of a physical element to his game. Im not saying Kubina makes Valabik a 30pt +30 dman in the NHL, but I think he could help Valabik to stabilize his game a little.
mutton
September 24th, 2009
2:50 am
(MAN… that didnt seem that long when I was typing it…)
Hockey Biltong
September 24th, 2009
2:52 am
Ok so Mrs Biltong should ride… nuff said!!!
Sadtoseeitthisway
September 24th, 2009
3:41 am
In case some of you have short memories. Boris was an absolute disaster his first 10-20 games he played for the Thrash. He never would have been extended that much of a look-see had he not been a former first round pick. It was painful to watch. I hope he`s not returning to that level of play.
World Be Free
September 24th, 2009
6:32 am
I still say Boris needs to go to Chicago-for both seasoning and motivation. Other guys have played better in the preseaon that deserve to be here.
Watched a little of BUF-Toronto last night. Exelby looked like a pylon, sorry to say. He’s a 6th or 7th in Toronto at best.
Manny Malholtra-if the stories are correct, Manny had a chance at a multi-year deal here for a mil or 2 per season. I guess he was looking for a better deal; he “got it” in San Jose, 1 year $700K. Nice going, Manny and your agent. Don’t roll the dice in a down economy.
The Sharks have to be in trouble if they are looking to fill out their roster so close to the regular season.
Lee
September 24th, 2009
6:48 am
ugh, just disgusting night for boris. ya know, his size is what makes us wanna keep him.
that sounds great! signing max cant do much wrong!
Lee
September 24th, 2009
6:48 am
smooth anderson.
Hip Czech
September 24th, 2009
7:03 am
Oh oh…sounds like Boris took a big step back last night.
WBF, I always wondered if the Thrashers had any talks with Maholtra, seemed like he might have been a good fit here (one heck of a face-off man!). Nice to hear the Thrashers were pursuing it.
Hopefully the PA announcer has learned to pronounce An-TRO-pov correctly (and hopefully he gets lots of practice this season). Kind of embarrassing Monday night when your big FA signing has his name mispronounced.
Sara
September 24th, 2009
7:17 am
I suppose Anderson could have been speaking in the theoretical, like, theoretically, if Max is here in the regular season…um, yeah. Max had some good shifts, some impressive skating, a little off-timed passes here and there, and a couple shifts of pure coasting.
And speaking of pure coasting on some shifts…ahem, Kaptain K I’m looking straight at you. Tsk, tsk, tsk.
Last night was quite the lesson – no getting complacent even with a 3 goal lead and just under 6 min left in the game. The team had checked out mentally and headed for the showers. They nearly paid for it. As for Boris – he needs a mentor badly. I mean so far he’s had mostly XLB – yeah, lots of good stuff to learn there. The team needs to get on the ball with that one (and Pavs).
And finally, a little shout out to my oldest who made it onto the JumboTron last night and extra hugs for my youngest who didn’t. Thanks camera guy….
HookyBob
September 24th, 2009
7:24 am
I have to think that Kabina’s 4 minute minor on Oglivy (or whoever it was) is the best penalty so far this year. As impressive as Antro is,…I think Kubina may help the team more. He’s got Sutton’s size and some nasty to go with it. I hope he keeps the “A” on his jersey.
Still the # of shots given up is worrisome.
This is the first time I saw Kane on the ice. I liked what I saw,…wish he had another 10-20 pounds on him though. I noticed he played both special teams last night. They are really giving him a good look.
Boris did have a bad night. Stepped up at the wrong time, didn’t cover his guy,took too many penalties, etc.
Who is Josh Gratton and where did he come from?
five_hole
September 24th, 2009
7:36 am
Everyone can have a bad game but with Boris, it seems like it’s the same thing every game. I can’t imagine him making the team at this point. I like a physical, intimidating presence on the ice, but I also like players who, I dunno, make smart plays and don’t take stupid penalties.
When I read Chris’s column I saw the same thing Bill did. Haven’t gotten to see Max play yet, but if he’s over the knee injury, then he’s a keeper IMO. Especially if he comes with a bargain basement price.
Riceowls8891
September 24th, 2009
7:51 am
Wow! I wonder if I was at the same game. Watching Opie made me nervous. He was a rebound machine. I agree the goals were not his fault, but he left rebound after rebound in the crease. I just think in the regular season thats going to get the Thrashers killed. And he plays so small in net.
Antropov was fantastic. If he plays that way in the regular season, I think he will get the 100 points.
And Afinogenov looked good. He used his speed to create chances for his teammates and went to the front of the net for deflections. I hope he does stay.
World Be Free
September 24th, 2009
8:03 am
Hip Czech-I heard the announcer mess up Antropov’s name a few times Monday night. You figure he would have been prepared! What’s he going to do to Max’s name?!
Boris is too slow. When I was younger, I was an average skater in a good league. as an average or slow skater, you spend so much time trying to keep up with better skaters. It’s also easy to get caught out of position and harder to get back. That’s why skating is so important in hockey. Sounds simple, but skating is the basis of the game and why so many good players never make it to the NHL. He’s still here becuase of his size.
Boris needs to concentrate on defense and not even think about scoring goals or getting assists. His only plays with the puck should be off the boards and out of the zone.
DB
September 24th, 2009
8:23 am
One slight correction, Sugiura wrote the article, not Vivlamore.
Zoomo
September 24th, 2009
8:32 am
Any opinions on how Kane looked last night.?I didn’t hear the radio guys mention him too much, but I only caught part of the game.
Was Gratton’s performance enough to give him a look on the 4th line? I doubt we’d keep both him and Boulton when you could fill your extra forward spot with a more versilte forward.
Sara
September 24th, 2009
8:32 am
WBF – there’s actually a good discussion on Falconer’s blog about the name pronunciations and apparently the announcer is correct.
J.B.
September 24th, 2009
8:32 am
A buddy of mine were discussing Kovy’s performance thus far in the preseason. I honestly don’t think he’s coasting. I think he may be out there evaluating the team skating around him. Just a theory, but I’m buying into it.
I watched the presser right after Ben posted it last night and rewound the q & a on Afinogenov like 10 times to make sure I heard Coach right. It’s been suggested he made a mistake and was talking about Antropov instead of Afinogenov. I’m not buying that at all.
Toby
September 24th, 2009
8:36 am
Zoomo –
I wasn’t there last night, so take it FWIW….
I read that he’s seems lost and intimidated. That may change if he ends up on a line with Reasoner and/or Army, but it’s looking like he may benefit from another year in Vancouver.
Toby
September 24th, 2009
8:37 am
I was talking about Kane btw….
Glovesave29
September 24th, 2009
8:49 am
No one here wants Boris to become the next Zdeno Chara or Braydon Coburn…the guy that develops into a stud later in his career. But with the two aforementioned players, there were early albeit inconsistant flashes that led one to believe there was something great developing. NYI and ATL gave up on them and well, we know the rest of the story. I cannot see that happening with Boris. He’s still a slug on skates, and if he makes this team, someone more deserving will be on the outside looking in. He just has got this tremendous size that makes him get additional chances he doesn’t necessarily deserve.
Zoomo
September 24th, 2009
8:49 am
Re: Anderson’s comments. I’ll be shocked if Max doesn’t get a one year deal. You have to at least take a flyer on a guy with his skills in Anderson’s system. If it doesn’t gel, you cut your losses and/or deal him.
R. Stroz
September 24th, 2009
8:59 am
According to Ben Wright’s twitter page, the Anderson comment concerning Afinogenov was a mixup. Ben’s twitter post follows:
That was a mixup. He was asked about Afinogenov and answered talking about Antropov
Antropov had plenty of playing time last night. Afinogenov, not as much.
Ben Wright has obviously been taking “spin” classes from Waddell.
Spud Webb
September 24th, 2009
9:00 am
Rawhide, I just read the actual paper and saw that quote about Max. WTF is that?????????????? REally, so he’s already made the team?? That’s very, very disappointing to me, there are a LOT of other guys in camp busting their humps. Tryout max gets a free pass??????????? I don’t like that or the message it sends!
Nik looks like the real deal on the first line, no worries there, but lets focus on making our second and third lines better, NO MAX please.
Kubina, THAT IS WHAT I’m talking about. Nobody runs a top 5 player in the league, unless his name is Kovy, well for the last 5 years anyway teams have done what they want vs Kovy. Please stand up Thrashers, show some unity!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
And finally, I love Valabik, mostly for his size and what I WANT HIM TO BE, but I just don’t think he’s going to make it. Ugh, hope I’m wrong!!!
Tom
September 24th, 2009
9:19 am
Let’s not forget that we have the couple of positions watching the game every night in the pressbox. And when the injuries occur, and they always do, having a deep team is an asset. We have NEVER had that luxury here, instead we call Chicago and pray that whomever is called up this time will step up.
Having a cheap Maxi working his butt off getting back into the position he feels he deserves has great potential with little downside. Same with Manny Legace. Having Valebek in the pressbox for the initial roadtrip and ready in case of injury.
We have a huge opportunity to have depth on this team instead of fear. The locker room will be very happy to have one of their own step up, not a call up from Chicago.
Rawhide
September 24th, 2009
9:25 am
One slight correction, Sugiura wrote the article, not Vivlamore.
DB – Thanks for the correction, I’ve updated the post.
According to Ben Wright’s twitter page, the Anderson comment concerning Afinogenov was a mixup…Antropov had plenty of playing time last night. Afinogenov, not as much.
RStroz – yeah, I gotta scratch my head there too. Max played 11:40 last night. Antropov played 16:44 and 18:20 on Monday night. To me he’s getting his time. I wasn’t in the room to hear it, but to me…that looks like Anderson was talking about Max.
We’ll see, I guess.
J.B.
September 24th, 2009
9:32 am
Based on the way the question was phrased from the female russian reporter (anyone know what media outlet she’s from? i’d be interested on what she wrote on the game) and the context around the infamous quote from Coach Anderson, I just don’t see how he could be talking about Antropov. If he was and did make a mistake, wouldn’t someone in the room ask him to clarify? The press wasn’t exactly clamoring over one another to get questions in; there was plenty of time for the inquirer to get clarification on his answer. Just my opinion. It was late and I was tired when I watched the presser, so I maybe reading too much into it, but I think he slipped up and announced we’re signing Maxim.
Christy
September 24th, 2009
9:46 am
Good Morning all. RE Max and Evander – it seemed that the first period that line just wasn’t comfortable with each other, didn’t know where they were going or doing. I thought later on Max had a couple of nice breaks but was trying too hard to feed Kane or Stapleton instead of taking the shot himself. Stapleton, though, I thought had a better game overall than either of them, playing more on “special teams”, etc.
R. Stroz
September 24th, 2009
9:48 am
A few takes from last night’s game.
1) Sign Popovic. He has earned a spot on the roster.
2) Mad Max played pretty well, especially considering the line he was on. So, and I know this will drive some of you bezerk, Sign Afinogenov. Mad Max skated harder than Kovy last night.
3) Peverley never takes a shift off. The guy busts his hump every single shift. Re-sign Peverley quickly.
4) Big Boris seems unable to anticipate or read plays well on defense.
Hopefully, Kubina can mentor Big Boris as Schneider mentored Bogosian last season. Boris is still a work in progress and not exactly NHL material yet.
5) Kubina gets major props taking up for Kovy. Kubina took the bum out with one punch.
On a lighter note:
1) My sympathies go out for Smoothie, as he was sitting in front of my BULLHORN. I hope your ears aren’t ringing Smoothie.
2) I met HookyBob. HookyBob come down and join in the insanity next time.
3) Props to Tong G. for getting on the jumbotron. You really dance like a “white man.”
4) We have to get the “Crab Dance” on youtube. Razor, that was GREAT.
Tony C.
September 24th, 2009
9:57 am
Great to see everybody that made it to the game and came on down…
My impressions from the game:
1) ZOMG! we’ve got guys that go to the net on the team now! (In fact Gratton’s 2nd goal might as well have been a “how-to” drill for the simple give&go from the blueline in-give the puck up and go to the net with your stick on the ice)
2) Really wasn’t impressed with Pavelec’s rebound control and was more than a bit confused by his receiving the 3rd star of the night-certainly, he did make some circus-type saves but he also let in some really soft ones
3)Kane is really f’n good. Still, I think he’d be well served playing in the AHL….can’t do that so I reckon they’ll drag his 9 games of eligibility out.
4)Pasha is a very nice pick-up. There was no hesitation on his part when dude torpedo’d #17~just instant bullrush retaliation-oh yeh dude is pretty nifty with his stick work as well…
5)Not that this is news but…Bogosian is a hoss. Also, he needs to work on finishing below the circles if he’s going to keep taking off with the puck like that-maybe it was just this game, but seems to me that if dude could elevate the puck when he’s in close he would’ve potted at least 2 last night.
6)Jimmy Slater has really improved tremendously from this same time last year.
7)Coach really wants the #17/Antro/Little line to work. A lot. It seemed like he was putting them out there every other shift at one point. They do however look pretty effin good for the most part.
8)Popovic should make this team unless he’s a complete dillweed in the room. His play was strong and his decisions timely and with one exception absolutely correct.
Bob
September 24th, 2009
10:00 am
Afinogenov has always been a great skater, bad finisher. But I’d rather see him on the team than wasting a year of Kane, and I think Coach just told us Max is getting signed and I assume he’ll play on the 2nd line.
Valabik needs a lot more seasoning, back to Chicago for him.
Bob
September 24th, 2009
10:03 am
Oh, question of the day: Who’s the happiest guy to read Coach’s quotes from last night? Afinogenov’s agent.
Gib Traf
September 24th, 2009
10:17 am
Anderson was asked two questions by different reporters where the reporters clearly asked about Afinogenov but it really sounds like Anderson was responding about Antropov:
Question: Please speak more about Afinogenov’s game. You didn’t give much time to him today.
Anderson: Well I thought he played really well. We didn’t have very many power plays. And, uh, I thought him and KOVY were working well together. they are seeing the ice very well. He’ll play more in the regular season games. It’s just the way it went tonight with so many penalties against. You know, he’s not a penalty killer.
Question: What were you looking for with Afinogenov.
Anderson: A shot to the roof just like he did. Uh. Kovy and him got something going. Made a good play down low on the PP with Litts etc.. etc….
Now, Afinogenov very well may get signed but it did seem like Anderson got mixed up on the names and response.
J.B.
September 24th, 2009
10:40 am
i see your point Gib… i only heard the game on the radio, were there any shifts when Kovy & Maxim went out on the ice at the same time or did the set lines stay in tact all night?
BTW – clever name choice there. made me laugh out loud and I’m at work!
GaVaHokie
September 24th, 2009
10:51 am
Yeah, I noticed later in the interview someone asked Coach about “his plans for Afinogenov” and he replied with a comment about Antropov and him “being the 100 point guy they thought he’d be in Toronto”… and I started to realize he was confusing the two.
Smoothie
September 24th, 2009
11:19 am
Good comments all around on this blog…a lot of cogent and accurate observations regarding the key participants.
Fritsche – the fact that no one has really commented on him may not bode well as Danny hasn’t really stood out. However, he seems comfortable on the PK and was not on the ice for any goals allowed.
Gratton – what more can you say? He has done everything necessary to earn a roster spot. Will the coaches have the balls to cut Thorburn? I think you keep Boults and Gratton as Gratton can play RW as a lefty.
Crabbshack – love the guy since he normally plays with great energy and borderline on the edge. However, he didn’t seem to be in the flow of the game and perhaps it is the result of unfamiliarity with his line-mates. Honestly, if Crabb is fighting for 3rd or 4th line mins, why is he playing with two skill guys that aren’t yet used to each other?
Stapleton – he definitely has some good puck skills and makes good decisions. However, he is TINY!! He makes Perrin look 6′ 2″. Overall this team struggles with sustained puck possession and cycling so I don’t see how Timmy will fit…good call-up potential though.
Kane – I thought he started really strong in the first period when Max was still finding his rhythm. EK made some good decisions with the puck and even made one D-man look silly with a dangle, but I think he fumbled the puck a little as the shot on goal didn’t have much on it. The kid has great hands, but he hasn’t had many opportunities to show it. If he’s truly got a shot, why not let him get some mins with Pevs & Little or Nik & Max to see what he can do? From the 2nd period on, he looked very unsure of himself.
Raucously fun time sitting down low in 111 with Rawhide’s Rowdies. Luckily, my ears aren’t ringing too bad from Stroz’ bullhorn, but I hope my friends (relatively new to hockey) weren’t terrified by his passionate and funny exhortations!! Also great to meet Tony C and his family along with the motley crew from the Chronicle. If Crabb can cement a job, we can get some serious crab-dance mojo going this year!
Darkhorse
September 24th, 2009
11:25 am
Boris did have a rough game, but I really hope someone like Kubina can truly mentor him. It does look like he’s trying too hard to make Anderson’s system work for him. Maybe he’s just not cut out for an offensive system and will excell in a more simple role. I would be curious what Anderson thinks of his progression now vs two years ago in Chicago. If they truly feel Boris has the talent to succeed and stay, then they need to fully commit to having him work longer and harder before and after practices and such on his challenges. Let him know what is gonna hold him back until he puts in the extra time to try and correct it. If he wants to stay up here, then he’ll put in the extra work.
I also did not feel as good as some of you watching Pavs. He flopped around a few too many times and let out way too many juicy rebounds. Some of the goals were not on him, but for someone trying to lock down the top goalie spot, he made me and my wife very nervous from our vantage point in 106. Did not look bad overall, but not quite a true number one just yet except by default.
I thought Gratton and Stapleton showed some real value and perserverance last night. Both played well when matched up together. The two on one for Gratton’s second goal was very nice. Like others above said, a Thrasher that went straight to the net…wow! When it’s all decided, I think they both will head to Chicago, but they proved to the staff they can fill a specific role just fine and will be quick call ups when certain guys go down.
As I said on the last blog, Max showed me enough in his first game with new linemates to play a bigger role in the Carolina game on Friday. He might be a great weapon to have througout the season for cheap.
I saw Kane do some nice things with regards to positioning, two way play, versitility, keeping his head up, and showing he could play both on the PP and PK. But I say give him a cup of coffee for 5 games maybe and let him go back to juniors to work on bulking up. I would argue we needed Bogo worse last year than we need Kane this year.
Kubina certainly isn’t the fastest guy on the ice, but he uses his size and skill pretty well, along with leadership. Definitely a top four guy. Loved his decision to immediately stick up for Kovy.
It’s preseason and I am glad things go wrong so they have time to address them.
Rawhide
September 24th, 2009
11:29 am
Gib Traf – Cudos on the “username”…well done. Sounds like you were in the area listening to the questions and comments. was that the case? At any rate…sounds like Anderson very well could have mixed up Max and Nik’s names. Stuff like that happens.
Thanks for the input.
Smoothie
September 24th, 2009
11:34 am
Oh yeah, one more thing, Peverley must’ve been bursting with pride when the “PEVERLEY, PEVERLEY” chant was at its crescendo right before Peever took the draw right in front of us at the left dot. Suck it Nashville!
GaVaHokie
September 24th, 2009
11:35 am
In case you missed it… Malhotra has officially signed with San Jose.
http://tsn.ca/nhl/story/?id=292316
JLH
September 24th, 2009
11:41 am
This is a repost from the previous blog.
I saw last night’s game and came away with several of my roster questions answered (at least in my own mind). I have been on the fence about each of these players.
1) Kane is not ready to play up here. He was tentative and average at best, and I think that’s being generous. He was also not strong on the puck. I wish he could play in the AHL, because like a lot of you, I’m not sure that another year in Juniors will give him the experience with speed and size that he needs. If he plays in Atlanta this year, even just for 9 games, I see a couple of things happening. One, we will be fielding a weaker team than we otherwise could at the start of the season and I think we are all agreed that we need to start strong. Two, Evander’s confidence may take a significant hit, and we all know how that can turn out. If this was a “rebuilding” year, then I might say yes, let’s give him a half season to come around, but it is not.
2) Afinogenov definitely gets the nod over Kane. His speed was evident and generally effective, and his stick handling was also generally superior. He also had a little time on the penalty kill, and held his own.
3) Gratton over Bolts. I hate to say it, but his superior offensive play combined with his experience as a “tough guy”, gives him the nod in my book. And it wasn’t just the fact that he scored 2 goals, but that he consistently put himself in position to score without sacrificing his game in other ways. Can you imagine how we would be raving if Boulton had scored twice. If Waddell is true to his word, (insert snickers and uproarious laughter) about ignoring contract considerations to put the best team on the ice I think Gratton gets the nod.
4) As good as Oystrick has looked at times, I think he may have played himself out of a role with the big club tonight. He misread, or misplayed the puck, pinching up. several times tonight, directly resulting in at least one goal, and didn’t assert himself offensively at all. Popovic was unremarkable offensively also tonight, but I never saw him as a liability defensively tonight.
Valabik also looked like a liability tonight, in addition to his 2 penalties. His skating is still not where it needs to be, and he seems to still be quite a ways away from knowing how to use his size in the NHL. I must say he did make one nice hip check against the board in the first period, but ended up on the ice himself. I think the Thrashers are committed to Boris for this year to see if the sleeping giant will awake, but I have not seen his size be enough of an asset to overcome his deficits. Postma looked NHL ready to me on Monday, but I think a year at Chicago will be best in the long run for both him and Kulda. They should both push hard for a seat at the main table next season.
While Peverley sure brought a lot of energy and puck control skilI, I think he was a bit disappointingl. I am afraid though, that as in Nashville, he will flounder if he is not playing with highly skilled players. Thorburn showed some good puck control and patience with the puck and didn’t looked nearly as bad tonight on the PK as on Monday. Fritsche did not distinguish himself in my mind tonight and Stapleton looked comfortable if not outstanding, playing at this level. Even though Crabb had a goal, (off a fantastic pass by Bogosian) I would say he did not have a great game and did not really show his speed and was not confident with his decision making.
So my opening night line-up would be:
Kovy – Antropov – Little
Kozlov – White – Afinogenov
Peverley – Reasoner – Armstrong
Gratton – Slater – Fritsche/Thorburn
Enstrom – Bogosian
Hansey – Kubina
Popovic – Salmela/Valabik
Armstrong and Hansey’s injuries do not sound like they would prevent them from playing on opening night.
mid-ga-hockey fan
September 24th, 2009
12:02 pm
Does anyone have any idea as to when they plan to make these cuts today?afternoon,evening,late tonite?I’m getting antsy,what can I say.
Alan
September 24th, 2009
12:12 pm
A little off topic, but this is interesting nonetheless: Wayne Gretzky has resigned as coach of the Coyotes.
Rawhide
September 24th, 2009
12:12 pm
Riceowls8891 – Per your 7:51 am post…playing “small” is the big knock on Pavs. Glovesave29 makes that observation a lot.
JLH – Great recap…and it was nice seeing you and Goose last night again.
mid-ga-hockey fan – Dunno. I guess we’ll find out soon enough though.
Alan – WOW!
World Be Free
September 24th, 2009
12:16 pm
Alan-I guess that’s no surprise, considering the mess that is the Yotes.
Sara-can’t wait until the folks in Toronto hear (right or wrong) how we are pronouncing antropov. They, of course will say they are right becuase it’s Toronto-they are perfect.
mid-ga-hockey fan
September 24th, 2009
12:26 pm
Sorry if I sound impatient but I am 35 miles SOUTH of Macon and I don’t have a great deal of sympathiser’s (is that even a word?)when it comes to my Hockey withdrawals.Moreso since Macon would not support the Whoopee or Trax.I feel as though I am stuck in my own private hell and the only fix I get is this blog during the day and the NHL network at night,If I see Sidney Crotchby one more time I think I will be on the roof with a rifle!! HELP!!!!!!
World Be Free
September 24th, 2009
12:26 pm
JLH-what is your read on Postma? he looked real good Monday night. I am concerned about his size.
Smoothie
September 24th, 2009
12:30 pm
I agree with JLH’s observations for the most part, but I would keep Boults and Gratton on the 4th line and try to trade Thorburn for a mid-round draft pick. Yes Thorburn is younger, but Boults is still a better fighter. If Gratton can play with that kind of puck awareness and savvy, I’m fine with waiving Boults and hoping he makes it thru to CHI.
As several have said, I think Kane gets his “cup of coffee” playing LW on the 3rd line with Reasoner & Army. If Army is not ready to go, then Mad Max plays in his stead. When Kane gets shipped out to VAN (CBA sucks cuz another year of JR does him NO good!).
As for Peverley, he SHOULD NOT be playing wing. Period. Yes, he can play there and be relatively effective, but his F/O prowess and back-checking as a C is too valuable. Either re-unite the Little White Russian line with Pevs between Kovy & Nik or let White play RW on the 2nd line since he’s left-handed. Pevs can dangle and shoot but playing RW as a righty without being an Army type player makes no sense.
Kovy – Pevs – Antro (love ya Little, but Pevs deserves his shot)
Kozzy – Little – Mad Max
Kane / White – Reasey – Army / Max
Boults – Slater – Gratton
Fritsche or Thorburn is a pick ‘em…
World Be Free
September 24th, 2009
12:35 pm
Ex Thrashers gets on the NHL “blotter”-
The National Hockey League has suspended Phoenix Coyotes right wing Francis Lessard for the remainder of the preseason and three regular season games for a game misconduct penalty assessed last week against the Anaheim Ducks.
J.B.
September 24th, 2009
12:36 pm
Per Ben, no cuts coming today. Lots of ‘em this weekend.
Tony C.
September 24th, 2009
12:45 pm
Other thought I forgot to mention: Antropov is HORRIBLE on the draw. Little should take the F/O and then go to the wing.
Alan
September 24th, 2009
12:47 pm
Great news on Afinogenov! This is a good pickup because Kane is FAR from ready! I’d like to see Thorburn moved back to the middle of the 4th line, with Boulton and Gratton on the wings, dropping Slater. I think we’ve seen all we need out of Slater. He is not really needed here anymore.
World Be Free
September 24th, 2009
12:48 pm
Signing Frische or Max would be OK, but why not go for one of two impact players out there- Mats Sundin or Peter Forsberg?
They are both old and not what they used to be, but still have gas in the tank.
NorthStarsDave
September 24th, 2009
1:11 pm
Forsburg is playing for his hometown team….Sundin will only play in Canada….
Basillie made an offer to keep the Coyotes in Glendale for one more year…then to off to Hamilton….which could mean a move of the Thrashers to the West….
Russian
September 24th, 2009
1:13 pm
**to WBF**
No way. Forget about Matt or Peter. They are Classic History of NHL.
Daculafan
September 24th, 2009
1:24 pm
Smoothie…have to respectfully disagree with your lineups…I think you’re way underselling Whitey…he had 71 points last year dishing to the top two lines…you can’t put him on the third line..that will just be flushing away a lot of points.
I would be more inclined (if you actually switching up from the current looks) to see something like
Kovy – Antro – Mad Max
Kozzy – White – Little
Pevs – Marty the Party – Army
Boults – Slates – Gratton
Toby – Bogo
Kubina – Hainsey
Pops – Oyster\Salmela
Thorburn – Valabick in the press box
I think I’d send Kane back down for this year…I think he needs a little more size and I just don’t think he’s quite ready
Smoothie
September 24th, 2009
1:45 pm
I hear ya Dacula, but I really believe Pevs has just as much point potential as Whitey. 39 pts and a +16 (16!!!) in 35 games with several different line-mates. He gelled with Kovy early on. He was making plays on the west coast with Reasoner & Army. He excelled with Slava and Army in March & April.
In contrast, White struggled through periods of lackluster play throughout the 2nd half. He was a -9 for the month of January (worst on team for forwards) when other players like Kovy, Pevs and Army were heating up. I’m okay with Little White Russian to start the season, but eventually I think Whitey’s minutes will need to be managed more closely to preserve him for the stretch. He is 35 and not quite in the shape that Kozlov is.
I certainly could be wrong, but one thing I feel confident in saying is NO to the Russian Natl Team top line combo you suggest. Defensive disaster especially with Nik losing F/O and puck possession 70% of the time. Peverley may not be a point per game guy, but he will get us the puck when we don’t have it, stop odd-man rushes on the back-check and get to the net with his speed. Pevs is 5th best forward IMHO.
Hockey Biltong
September 24th, 2009
2:45 pm
North Stars Dave; step away from the Zamboni exhaust pipe…….it’s hurting you.
Viking
September 24th, 2009
2:48 pm
I have not seen any preseason games, but here comes my opinions based on last season and the comments made by some of you guys;
1) I believe this season could be Thrasher’s best ever, and like JLH just implied, this is not the time to use the very tough – and important – beginning of the schedule to use as some kind of Kane development camp. I guess those of you that suggest he should have his 9 game experience must not feel the same excitement I have over the upcoming season. I doubt Kane is a better seat count improver than a good (and crucial for both the season and re-sign efforts) start of the season. If I am not mistaken, he just turned 18 and extremely few players are ready for action in the best league in the world at that age. It sucks that he can not go to the AHL, but I do not believe he is ready for
NHL and first pick hype and marketing possibilities should not take precedence over common sense.
2) Valabik in possession of the puck (among other negatives) scared the heck out of me last season and it appears that he will continue to be a weak link in the chain to season success. Same thing here, this season has potential and do not waste it on player development. Chara comparisons seems like they are just based on his size, living up to former pick expectancy and hope. Chara did not really come out of the closet until he had a sejour with my old home team Färjestad during the lock out season. And I do not even think that would make Valabik much better. If Boris has not learned how to skate at NHL level by now, together with his inferior passing abilities, please do not occupy a roster spot hoping for the best.
3) It has been reported that the coaching staff has been watching videos of good Penalty Killing. If this does not translate into good performance by our players, we are still in trouble. I still do not get why a PK specialist has not been acquired. They do not cost that much and they are in my opinion greatly under-appreciated. PK players will generally not generate good point stats, but should still be on any GM’s mind. UFA Fredrik Sjöström, one of the PK best’s in the league, a main part of Rangers’ PK success last season, went to Oilers for 750 000 per year / 2 years. To me, it is astonishing that Rangers let him leave and that a bidding war between PK deficient teams did not occur. Many games are lost because of poor Penalty Killing!!!!
4) For defense, Salmela appears to be the best one to be happy about aside from the not automatically qualified defensemen. He showed glimpses of greatness last season and seems to be a perfect fit for the “Anderson system”.
5) I liked the potential of Popovic before and he seems to have improved. I bet he will be great.
6) Goalie depth is important – as we know from past experience – whatever situation they can figure out to keep the depth (including Legace) could be the difference this season.
7) I have optimistic thoughts about Afinigenov.
World Be Free
September 24th, 2009
3:11 pm
Gretzky resigned from the Yotes-Janet won’t move to Hamilton. But then again, who would want to move to Hamilton-that dirty, scummy, slimey sewer of a city.
Daculafan
September 24th, 2009
3:15 pm
Smoothie – Good point about the defensive responsibility of that first line combo…didn’t consider that when I threw that out there, that’s a VERY valid point. So with that in mind I could see keeping the top line as it stands now intact and moving Max to the opposite side of Kozzy…that puts White/Reasoner/Peverley (take your pick almost) to anchor the center.
J.B.
September 24th, 2009
3:22 pm
Steve McCarthy is a Thrasher again. Can’t say I see the logic behind that move at all.
Toby
September 24th, 2009
3:23 pm
Daculafan…
My lines are close to yours. I’d do..
Kovy – Pevs– Antro
Kozzy – White – Little
Army – Slates– Mad Max
Boults – Marty the Party– Gratton
Toby – Bogo
Kubina – Hainsey
Pops – Oyster\Salmela
Thorburn – Valabick in the press box
I know I’ve said this before, but I really don’t understand why coach is breaking up that 2nd line after last year.
J.B.
September 24th, 2009
3:23 pm
what exactly does ‘future considerations’ mean? trying to figure out what we gave up to bring a mediocre former thrasher back into the fold.
… but a nice guy from what I’ve heard
J.B.
September 24th, 2009
3:27 pm
press release says Mac’s going straight to the wolves. i feel a little better. …just a little.
Brendan
September 24th, 2009
3:29 pm
http://www.nhl.com/ice/news.htm?id=499675. Thrashers sign Steve McCarthy, a name from the past.
Smoothie
September 24th, 2009
3:34 pm
http://www.thestar.com/sports/hockey/article/700160
Speaking of former Thrasher d-men, here’s a nice pic of XLB after a pre-season fight…guess he got popped pretty good!
Guess Stevie MacAwesome is desperate for some cash so he’s willing to do his time in Chicago…could be an interesting call-up if injuries (shudder) were ever to decimate our blueline.
The heat is glowing hotter than ever for Valabik, Oystrick, Pops & Salmela…Chicago could be a beast of a team to play against with the likes of Krog, Sterling, Stapleton, Macho-check, Esposito, Crabb?, Gratton / Boults?, Postma, McCarthy, Kulda, Lewis, Welch, MacIntyre etc.
R. Stroz
September 24th, 2009
3:47 pm
Too many d-men, I smell a trade brewing.
Smoothie
September 24th, 2009
3:48 pm
Dacula, I certainly wouldn’t mind letting Kovy, Max and Nik terrorize teams from time to time with their “mad” skillz, but only if it is used with utmost discretion (i.e. when we are home and have the luxury of matching up after an icing or last line change advantage). It’s certainly nice to know we have options and I agree that you have two nifty ingredients for a new variation of the White Russian line…call it a Double White Russian if you will. Go with your traditional White Russian if you want your vanilla, but solid tasting version. Or splash in some Peverley who has the pizzazz of a spicy but smooth amaretto to liven up your stoic white Russians!!
Viking, I think you make a very good point and I hope the coaches follow thru on their promise to ice the most talented team that gives us the best chance to win early and often. However, I still think Kane can get his “cup o’ joe” in the NHL without sacrificing depth. Sign Fritsche to a 2-way contract and try to sneak him thru waivers. Gratton can stay on as the 13th forward till JA decides it is time for the Crabb dance reunion tour…might as well re-assign Crabb sooner than later since he should still be exempt from waivers.
Smoothie
September 24th, 2009
3:50 pm
Stroz – please let it be Valabik!! He doesn’t fit this system!!
Pam on Weck
September 24th, 2009
3:51 pm
Steve McMinus? Say it ain’t so.
Rawhide
September 24th, 2009
4:08 pm
Steve McCarthy? … gasp!
Let’s see…in the debacle that was the 2007-08 season, Stevie-Mac played in 55 games for the Thrashers and scored one goal and 6 assist on 41 shots on goal. He had 48 PIM and was a …gasp… -23.
Un-good.
Many people do not remember, however, the Steve McCarthy of 2006-07, the playoff year, when in 46 games he scored 4 goals and 12 assists on 51 SOG. Mac had 24 PIM and was a…gasp… +4.
Not so un-good.
On February 24, 2007, McCarthy and the Thrashers played the Carolina Hurricanes and lost 4-1. Steve would not play another minute that season…instead being relegated to the press box… because after that game the Thrashers announced the now-infamous…gasp… Coburn for Zhitnik trade.
Very un-good.
Tom
September 24th, 2009
4:35 pm
You know how it is bad for an alcoholic to be put near a bar and told to sit still?
Well, I think the analogy applies to Don Waddell and mid level defenseman. He can not stay away from them. It has to be a disease. Is there an recovery meeting for bad GM’s?
GaVaHokie
September 24th, 2009
4:38 pm
You know how it is bad for an alcoholic to be put near a bar and told to sit still?
Great analogy… and for the amount of money you spent on 6 bottles of Pabsts, you could have bought one nice bottle of wine.
Rawhide
September 24th, 2009
4:43 pm
Per Dan Kamal’s Twitter…Legace will start tomorrow and McIntyre will play in the third. Afinogenov will see significant ice time.
jared
September 24th, 2009
4:45 pm
wow we had coburn……. DW you are an idiot. Go thrashers…. i need sleep
mid-ga-hockey fan
September 24th, 2009
4:59 pm
Am I the only one that smells somthing fishy? We are getting quite heavy in the defenseman category, we add McMinus,and delay roster cuts,look for a package of players to be moved soon,possible D-man-forward-goaltender package to free up room for Kane.I have no idea for whom but I believe the emergence of Pops,Gratton,and Max has thrown a large universal spanner (monkey wrench)into the works and given DW the tools to go shopping.Great position to be in,I hope the deal includes Boris,Slater,Thorbs and Moose.
mid-ga-hockey fan
September 24th, 2009
5:17 pm
WOW,Boris and Moose in same sentence,Where is Rocky and Natasha?(can you say mooose und squirrel)
mid-ga-hockey fan
September 24th, 2009
5:18 pm
I watch entirely too much TV.
jwizzle
September 24th, 2009
5:19 pm
I would have to politely disagree with the praise (even mildly-warm praise) given to Opie. He looked sharp in the first period for sure, but fell a little to fast at the middle of the third. Perhaps he was in “locker room mode” but he should play every shot like its the first of the night. I would also like to say that it’s not entirely his fault, the defense was shaky in the third, to put it nicely. Overall, I am excited with the team as a whole I witnessed last night. I can’t wait for Oct. 3rd!
R. Stroz
September 24th, 2009
5:23 pm
Well, I think the analogy applies to Don Waddell and mid level defenseman. He can not stay away from them. It has to be a disease. Is there an recovery meeting for bad GM’s?
Yes, a good firing.
Glovesave29
September 24th, 2009
5:29 pm
With all of the veterans in camps all over the NHL on a tryout basis, I cannot see any trades in the works for our lowest line defensemen…i think they are all Chicago bound.
Kaat
September 24th, 2009
5:35 pm
Interesting post, IceMan. I, for one, am dying to know if Afinogenov will make the team.
Re: Antropov pronunciation: A native Russian pronounces his First + Last name: Nikolai Antropov
(I am sorry if I mess up the link. http://forvo.com/tag/hockey_player/ <– find pronunciations by native speakers of Kovalchuk, Kozlov, Antropov, and many more! Very helpful site. If there is a name/word you wish to be pronounced in just about any language, you can request it.)
Kaat
September 24th, 2009
5:44 pm
Addendum to the name pronunciation debate: Hear Ilya Kovalchuk’s name pronounced by two native Russian speakers.
Vyacheslav Anatolevich Kozlov pronunciation of his name also by two native speakers.
ranallo10 (in AT)
September 24th, 2009
6:03 pm
Kaat — Interesting link, thanks. It’s a bit strange to hear a person from Finland pronounce Ilya Kovalchuk and believe it’s as accurate as possible.
Alan
September 24th, 2009
6:20 pm
I like this move.
Kaat
September 24th, 2009
6:32 pm
Well, Ranallo, the two people pronouncing Kovy’s name (in the direct link I provided above) are in Russia and identify themselves as Russians. One guy — skvodo — has been helping me with pronunciations for my Russian language classes. But there are Russians who read this blog and I am sure they can confirm (or deny) the accuracy of those two pronunciations. They can probably even tell if the person is a native speaker or not.
Scotty
September 24th, 2009
6:34 pm
Kamal says Afinogenov will be getting “significant icetime” Friday and Sunday? I’m sure the Thrashers will soon send someone out to tell us that Dan actually meant “Antopov”.
Dwayne
September 24th, 2009
6:56 pm
Smoothie….I really believe Pevs has just as much point potential as Whitey. 39 pts and a +16 (16!!!) in 35 games with several different line-mates. He gelled with Kovy early on. He was making plays on the west coast with Reasoner & Army. He excelled with Slava and Army in March & April.
…..How do you remember all that stuff???
All I know is that Pevs made everyone better, once he joined, the team started playing like, well, a team.
I do not see how JA could be pleased with Opie last night. I did not see the game, or hear the game. 3 goals in the 3rd is crap. Wondering if the Thrashers, tried to control the puck a little more with a 3 goal lead, or did they keep the pedal down, leaving Opie out to dry. Like they did Kari most of the time. Not sold on Opie, maybe will find out tomorrow night.
Dwayne
September 24th, 2009
7:07 pm
Mr. Bill, I just left Karin Beckman a voice mail. I want 2 lower level tickets. Hopefully I’ll hear from her soon.
Dwayne
September 24th, 2009
7:08 pm
To finish up on not being sold on Opie, maybe Legacy is a better option.
Smoothie
September 24th, 2009
7:50 pm
Dwayne, I’m a freak!
Rawhide
September 24th, 2009
7:56 pm
Kaat – Great links…very interesting inseed. Thanks. As for the Thrashers signing Afinogenov…I think they will. Honestly, I think JA did indeed slip up with that comment. Waddell and the Thrashers then engaged in some damage control today. Just my opinion.
Scotty – Very funny. I guess we’ll be reading some tweets in the morning clarifying that Dan meant to say Nik…not Max.
jwizzle – Respectful dissent is always welcome here. Nice first post.
Dwayne – Karin is good for calling back. Glad you can join us. It’s sure to be a blast.
five_hole
September 24th, 2009
7:56 pm
McCarthy?!?!?!?! WTF? Why would we trade to acquire a veteran defenseman (McCarthy?) unless we don’t have confidence in our top 7 d-men and felt we needed depth. Does ANYONE feel that way?
Of course, this was DW pulling the trigger.
Tony C.
September 24th, 2009
9:11 pm
Alan if that was you poo-poo’ing that Haggis guy from Boston’s column Nice work!
For anybody that needs some aggravation in their day:
http://www.weei.com/sports/boston/bruins/joe-haggerty/2009/09/24/kessel-deal-opens-door-possible-kovalchuk-pursuit
I really feel that he’s going to sign and soon, you could see him evaluating the other guys on the ice, and he seems to be pretty pleased-I paid special attention to his behavior/body language while he was on the bench-our Captain basically was on his feet whenever he was on the bench unless his line had just come off and he was catching his breath.
I feel good about our chances of retaining #17 and I also wouldn’t be surprised to see us make a move for Hiller out of Anaheim-he’s on his walk year and CLEARLY has what it takes to succeed in the NHL. We may even see #32 sent out that way-of course we’d probably have to eat a bad contract in return, but I’m not going to be to surprised to see us make a play for one of the better backups out there.
Pure conjecture on my part-hey, maybe I could get a job @ WEEI
Alan R.
September 24th, 2009
11:47 pm
It was indeed me, Tony. Thanks!
Rogie
September 24th, 2009
11:48 pm
McCarthy may do better in Anderson’s uptempo system than in Hartley’s or Waddell’s systems. He certainly isn’t a top 4 defenseman. He’s just depth…maybe a short-term insurance policy in Chicago for our power play if Hainsey or Enstrom gets nicked up. When we originally acquired him, he rejuvenated our power play by his ability to move the puck. You just can’t give him regular shifts as he’s a liability in the defensive zone.
Smoothie
September 25th, 2009
12:06 am
Hey Buddy!
Thrashers27
September 25th, 2009
2:14 am
McCarthy—Popovic…next thing you know Yannik Tremblay and Danny Tjarnquist will be on the roster.
Tom
September 25th, 2009
6:28 am
Ewe Krupp ready to come out of retirement again???
ranallo10 (in AT)
September 25th, 2009
5:46 pm
Kaat — Sorry for the timing, the link you gave was much better with the two Russians. When I did a simple search for the Anglicized “Ilya Kovalchuk”, the only pronunciation was from a Finn.